Previous reference: Minute 33 (2019/20)

The report of the Interim Strategic Director, Place, (Document “I”) provides information on the work of the Neighbourhood Wardens and Environmental Enforcement Officers in the Keighley Area. 

Recommended –

1.    That the progress of the Environmental Enforcement Neighbourhood Warden Service, since the last report in December 2021, be noted.

2.    That the Interim Strategic Director, Place, be requested to provide a further report detailing the progress of the Environmental Enforcement and Neighbourhood Warden Service to the Area Committee in 12 months’ time.

(Jonathan Hayes - 01535 61 8008)

The report of the Interim Strategic Director, Place, (Document “I”) provided information on the work of the Neighbourhood Wardens and Environmental Enforcement Officers in the Keighley Area. 

Following a detailed presentation, the team were thanked for their work in the area and believed that their efforts were much greater than documented in Document “I”. 

It was questioned if all of service requests detailed received enforcement actions and it was explained that the requests were triaged, the Neighbourhood Wardens could be very persuasive and issues could often be handled without the need for enforcement action.  The assistance provided by the Neighbourhood Wardens allowed the Enforcement Officers to carry out more essential enforcement action.

Members reported that residents were often angry when they could identify where fly tipping was originating and asked how it was decided which cases to pursue.  It was explained that if the perpetrators denied the offence it was very difficult, without solid evidence, to pursue such cases.  The use, and nature, of deployable CCTV cameras was explained and it was agreed to provide statistics for the Keighley constituency after the meeting. 

The report revealed, in addition to the investment in environmental enforcement, a number of projects to identify sustainable solutions to waste-related problems such as litter and fly tipping.  Members were aware that the funding for the Task Force was ending and it was explained that a tool kit pack was to be produced for use in problem areas.  It was not clear if that had already been produce and it was agreed to investigate and advise Members of progress.  It was also agreed to check if the Clean Street Funding available last year would be accessible again.

A Member referred to issues with Japanese Knotweed in certain areas and a perceived resistance from the Council to tackle that issue.  It was reported that the Environmental Pollution Team would deal with those issues and agreed to discuss the issue further outside of the meeting.

The report revealed the highest number of service requests was from the Keighley Central Ward and a Ward Member believed this was because his colleagues were hard working and reported many issues.  It was questioned if all complaints were recorded and explained that to be captured the service requests should be sent via the Council Contact Centre.

Issues in the Cavendish Street area were highlighted.  It was acknowledged that this was an education issue and officers were working with Ward Members to resolve matters.  There had been good cooperation and a number of enforcement notices had been served.

The hard work undertaken was acknowledged and the cutting of trees to increase visibility was welcomed.  It was reported that the Wardens checked the areas daily and CCTV cameras were monitored.  Due to the high turnover of tenants some areas had to be repeatedly cleared.  Task force and landlord training was being developed and would be implemented shortly and the service would try alternative methods to solve those issues.

The report revealed there were 60 fixed cameras deployed across the district and it was explained that the Task Force and Environmental Enforcement Officers considered which areas were hotspots and endeavoured to deploy cameras in those locations. 

In response to questions about the level of service requests in the Keighley Central ward it was explained that ward had two wardens deployed to reflect the work load. 

Following a suggestion that the use of CCTV cameras be publicised to residents in was agreed that promoting the location would likely result in perpetrators targeting other areas and evading capture. 

A Member questioned action taken on Ilkley riverside during periods of hot weather and he was advised that enhanced co-ordination would be in place with the police and Anti-Social Behaviour Officers next year.  A lot of education and advisory work was undertaken, however, drunken groups were often not responsive to advice and police and warden back up was required.  The number of wardens deployed would be increased during hot days. 

In response to questions about the recruitment of additional wardens it was agreed that Members would be advised of any appointments made in the new year.

Resolved –

1.    That the progress of the Environmental Enforcement Neighbourhood Warden Service, since the last report in December 2021, be welcomed and the hard work and efficiency of the service be acknowledged.

2.    That the Interim Strategic Director, Place, be requested to provide a further report detailing the progress of the Environmental Enforcement and Neighbourhood Warden Service to the Area Committee in 12 months’ time.

3.    That, as the work of the Task Force concludes, the hard work carried out and the difference that those efforts have made in the community be commended.

OVERVIEW AND SCRUTINY COMMITTEE: Corporate

Action: Interim Strategic Director, Place